A pre-season friendly between the MLS All-Stars and La Liga side Valencia CF was brought to a horrifying standstill on Wednesday night after defender Eder Smic was involved in a sickening collision.
The 26-year-old was left requiring urgent medical attention after a terrifying mid-air clash with MLS All-Stars goalkeeper Roman Burki. The incident occurred as both players courageously challenged for a high ball, resulting in a devastating impact.
Stadium medics and team doctors rushed onto the pitch as a hushed silence fell over the crowd. Smic was treated for several anxious minutes on the turf before being carefully fitted with a neck brace and stretchered from the field to a standing ovation from concerned fans.
The match, which was intended as a glamour exhibition ahead of the new season, was utterly overshadowed by the serious-looking injury. The MLS All-Stars, a team comprised of the league's top talent managed by Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira, went on to win the contest 1-0.
Valencia CF has since confirmed that Smic was transported to a local hospital for further assessment and all associated with the club are awaiting a full diagnosis on the extent of his injuries.
